We present an overview of time-resolved small-angle neutron scattering (TR-SANS) applied to biological systems, with a focus on bio-macromolecules and assemblies they form, together with practical guidelines. After a brief introduction to the theory and practice of SANS, we present the general setup and specifics of time-resolved experiments, as well as an overview of diverse experimental results and applications from the past ≈25years. Subsequently, we provide guidelines and practical instructions for the design, planning and execution for TR-SANS experiments, as a function of the time- and length-scales of the biological processes of interest, the availability of sample amount and deuterium labeling, and the structural information sought. We conclude with a discussion of the most recent instrumental and sample environment developments and perspectives for the future.
Keywords: Bio-macromolecules; Contrast variation; DNA; Deuteration; Length-scale; Lipid; Protein; RNA; Resolution; Small angle neutron scattering; Time-scale; Trigger.
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